MEN’S SHED ASSOCIATION – The Men’s Shed concept was introduced some years ago in Australia. It is now a worldwide organisation with its UK headquarters situated in Polegate, East Sussex. The original concept involved Australian sheep and cattle farmers congregating in an old tin shed to discuss their business, swap machinery and tools, and refurbish where necessary. There are nearly 1000 Men’s Sheds in the UK. The website is https://menssheds.org.uk. Nailsea Shedders is affiliated to UKMSA (United Kingdom Men’s Shed Association). A monthly newsletter called ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’ is published by the organisation.
OUR HISTORY – Nailsea Shedders was founded in 2013 as ‘Nailsea Social Shedders’ from a garden shed followed by a Scout Hut in Nailsea. This proved inconvenient and the Shed moved to our current location at the Wraxall Village Hall Club. We are affiliated to the UKMSA however we have many lady members, and everyone is welcome.
MEETINGS – Please note that Wraxall Village Club is not on a level site, there are access steps outside the building and more steps inside. There is also a steep slope to access a side door or the overflow car park. The hall is hired for two days each week. We meet every Tuesday from 10am to 3pm. We have use of all the facilities including the car park, and toilet. We adapt the main room to undertake tasks repairing and making items. There is also an outdoor area where work takes place. The items are brought in by members of the public. Local organisations also contact us for commissions or projects that they would like our help with. We do not charge for repairs; however, the owners cover the costs of any parts required through a donation to Shedders funds
UKEBOX – We have a musical group that plays ukulele. They hold regular practice sessions and there is a learning group for anyone interested. UkeBox perform at many venues in the area and all money raised goes to local charities.
OUR PURPOSE – Our primary aim is to reduce social isolation. Members are welcome to come and chat over a coffee or get involved with repairs and projects. Many men find it easier to socialise by working together ‘Shoulder to Shoulder’.
MANAGEMENT TEAM – Nailsea Shedders is a registered charity, number 1187786. There are currently three Trustees who ensure that we are run according to Charity Commission rules, with other members taking on various roles as part of the management team.
MEMBERSHIP – Membership is open to anyone. There is a monthly subscription which is currently £10 (ten pounds) which can be paid by standing order.
NEW MEMBERS – We will take new members through a simple induction process just to familiarise you with building layout, safety aspects and who is who. As a new member you may wish to have another member to act as your ‘BUDDY’ nominated to assist you in the early weeks to answer any questions and guide you with the various aspects of the organisation. vvWe have a Members Handbook which contains all relevant documents covering the management and operation of Nailsea Shedders and you are encouraged to familiarise yourself with this.
HEALTH AND SAFETY – We recognise that we have a Duty of Care to all members and your safety is of paramount importance to us both whilst moving about the building and when using power tools and hand tools to carry out jobs. Take care when entering the building and inside as there are several flights of stairs. You should be aware of our Health and Safety Policy and Risk Assessments contained in the Members Handbook. If you see anything that does not look right or is unsafe, then you should tell another member or raise an alarm if necessary.
TRAINING – Some activities at Shedders may require a qualification via a training course. This could be for PAT testing, First Aid, Health and Safety etc. Shedders may volunteer to attend a course if there is a specific need, costs will be met from Shedders funds. We will keep a record of qualifications held.
REFRESHMENTS – Tea and coffee are available throughout the day. There is normally a selection of biscuits and crisps available.
SHEDDER’S CLOTHING – There are items of clothing that can be purchased with the Nailsea Shedders logo on. Polo shirts, sweatshirts and caps are available at the subsidised rate of £5 per garment.
LOCAL EVENTS – Throughout the year various events take place in the Nailsea area which we are invited to attend and, in many cases, help with different events. Volunteers are always required to assist with running these events.
PUBLICITY – Our website is https://nailseashedders.org. Facebook – Nailsea Shedders. Flyers and business cards are available for distribution in the area. We also attend various local events where we can publicise our activities.
CONTACT DETAILS – If you require additional information, please contact the following:
Chair of Trustees – Donald Sparling [email protected]
Membership Secretary – Gloria Chambers [email protected]
General Enquiries – [email protected]
OUR POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
